golden rule

noun

Definition of golden rule

1 capitalized G&R : a rule of ethical conduct referring to Matthew 7:12 and Luke 6:31: do to others as you would have them do to you

2 : a guiding principle

Examples of golden rule in a Sentence

I try to live by the Golden Rule. The golden rule in sales is to know your customer.

Recent Examples on the Web

People have begged for better lane-change etiquette and for people to practice the golden rule. — Los Angeles Times, "Changing lanes in L.A. is an angst-ridden ballet. This motorist puts everyone else to shame," 7 Aug. 2019 Here, the living room’s 18th-century English neoclassical armchairs and the dining room’s Louis XVI crystal chandelier deftly add a historical layer without jeopardizing one of Deniot’s golden rules. — Cynthia Frank, ELLE Decor, "Tour a Luxe Turnkey Townhouse in London," 28 June 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'golden rule.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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More Definitions for golden rule

golden rule

noun

Financial Definition of golden rule

What It Is

The golden rule is very simple: treat people the way you want to be treated. In the business world, it also refers to fundamental principles of government spending: cover current spending with existing taxes and borrow only to fund investments that benefit more than on generation of citizens.

How It Works

A common principle in all of the world's great religions, the golden rule shows itself in every facet of the business world. It is the essence of what many call square dealing.

From a fiscal policy perspective, a government follows the golden rule when its tax revenues for the current year equal or exceed its day-to-day spending for the current year. Borrowing is allowed, but only for investments such as infrastructure projects, research projects, or other projects that benefit future generations.

Why It Matters

The golden rule is the fundamental policy behind many balanced budget amendment plans in the United States. Though the nation's history contains several attempts at implementing the golden rule, some critics argue that the idea also means that during recessions, when tax revenues are down, the government must cut public services when citizens might need them most.

Source: Investing Answers

golden rule

noun

English Language Learners Definition of golden rule

: a general rule for how to behave that says that you should treat people the way you would like other people to treat you

: an important rule to follow when you do something

See the full definition for golden rule in the English Language Learners Dictionary

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golden rule

Definition of golden rule

Examples of golden rule in a Sentence

First Known Use of golden rule

Financial Definition of golden rule

English Language Learners Definition of golden rule

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